Ronny’s Steakhouse, a staple of downtown dining, closes
After over 55 years of feeding hungry Chicagoans, downtown staple Ronny’s Steakhouse has closed its doors for good.
“Farewell, Chicago . . . It has been an historic run; it’s time to turn off that famous neon sign one final time” read a message posted Sunday on the restaurant’s Facebook page.
“My family is grateful to the city of Chicago. It means a lot to us as we have been a meaningful part of a rich civic history,” owner Kenny Munic said Sunday. “We are grateful to our staff and guests for their loyal and unwavering support over these past six decades.”
Commenters on the Facebook post shared their memories of the restaurant, with many describing eating there as kids and returning with their children years later.
“I’m in a complete shock. Love this place. Love the workers. I’ve been taking my son to this place since he learned how to walk,” Brandon Lush wrote.
Ronny’s was first opened in 1963 at 16 W. Randolph St. by Kenny Munic’s father, Herman. At one point, Ronny’s had six locations downtown.
By 2000, the chain was down to a single restaurant inside the Thompson Center in the Loop, where customers from across the city have sat at the steakhouse’s indelible green leather booths since.
Pictures of celebrities who have enjoyed a meal at Ronny’s adorned the walls.
“It’s been our honor and privilege to serve and employ our spectacular city’s citizens. A million thanks for the good times. Hold on to the memories. We won’t say good bye but rather until we meet again,” the Facebook message read.